Basic subjunctive Flashcards
What are some words in English that should clue you in to using the subjunctive in Spanish?
May, might, should, were (if I were…)
What are the three main categories of subjunctive situations?
1) Noun clauses
2) Relative or adjective clauses
3) Adverbial clauses
What is a noun clause?
A clause that has the same function as a noun, meaning it’s the subject or object of a sentence
ex: La ausencia de Ramón me molesta
think of it as “the fact that’’ Ramon is not here– bothers me
What is an adjective clause?
It describes a noun
ex: necesitan empleados que hablen español
Spanish-speaking employees
What is an adverbial clause?
modifies the verb. answer questions like where? how? when?
describes something further– like i’ll wait for you (where you tell me to go– describes further)
he got up (without anyone helping him)
we’ll give him your message (as soon as he arrives)
Where is the subjunctive usually found in a sentence?
the dependent (subordinate) clause
What are the three categories for the use of subjunctive in noun clauses?
- Expression of volition, intention, wish, or preference
- Verbs of communication
- Verbs of influence
What are some typical verbs that accompany the subjective when the main clause indicates volition, intention, wish, or preference?
querer, desear, prohibir, sugerir, preferir, aconsejar- to advise
What must there be in order to have the subjunctive, in regards to subject?
There must be 2 subjects. meaning the subject changes from the first to the second clause
ex: he wants us to listen
mom wishes that I stay at home
the neighbors prefer us to call
my mother forbids us from swimming
i advised you to do this
When do you use the subjunctive in sentences with emotion?
When the verb in the main clause expresses feelings or emotion you use the subjunctive in the dependent clause *** THERE HAS TO BE A CHANGE IN SUBJECT
When do you use the subjunctive in situations of uncertainty?
The main clause expresses doubt, disbelief, uncertainty, or denial about the reality of the dependent clause
**THERE HAS TO BE A CHANGE IN SUBJECT
What are the most common verbs that express uncertainty?
no (poder) creer, dudar, no estar seguro de, and negar
